Luke Goetz Biography

The Western Bulldogs have sacked first-year rookie Luke Goetz, stating the youngster had struggled with the demands of AFL football.

Bulldogs football manager Graham Lowe said the 202cm ruckman had not been able to meet the standards required by the club.

"After some promising early signs, Luke had difficulties finding his feet in an elite AFL program," Lowe said.

"It was mutually agreed that the level of commitment required to be an AFL player was too difficult for Luke at this stage of his life.

"The club had worked with Luke, his management and family throughout the season to help him consistently meet professional standards, and will continue to provide ongoing support for him from a welfare perspective."

Luke Goetz has failed in his bid to overturn a misconduct charge at the Tribunal on Tuesday night, leaving the rookie with a $1500 fine.

Goetz took the uncommon step of challenging a fine after he was charged for pushing Melbourne defender Colin Garland over the fence during the Bulldogs' NAB Challenge game in Craigieburn.

"I didn't intend to but when I saw him cut in front … I put my hands up to protect myself," Goetz said.

"When I was running it didn't register how close (the fence) actually was.

"It was just a matter of the momentum we both had."